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You CAN improve your appearance without going under the knife!
By Dr Yves HÉbert
Some people want to look a few years younger, while others want to improve their figure and waistline, but most are not prepared to go under the scalpel. Cosmetic medicine meets the growing needs of a clientele that looks for less invasive methods that are less radical than surgery.
A Trend Begins to Develop
In recent years, cosmetic medicine seems to have taken precedence over cosmetic surgery. This phenomenon has been observed in the United States, France as well as in Canada. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, the number of surgical procedures grew annually by 8% from 1997 to 2006. During this period, non-surgical procedures increased by 747%. Without having similar statistics for Quebec, we can assume the same trend.
Less invasive cosmetic procedures are clearly experiencing a stronger growth than surgical procedures. The aging of baby boomers, the sociological changes and technological advances in medicine have led to this increased interest in cosmetic medicine. Cosmetic procedures are becoming more mainstream, and the practice is no longer just for women. It appears that men are now responsible for seeking out 20% of all procedures.
Without claiming to replace surgery, which offers more dramatic results, cosmetic medicine achieves more than satisfactory results without the inconveniences and risks of surgery.
Cosmetic medicine responds to the needs of a clientele that cannot afford long absences from work; that want a discreet approach that will almost go unnoticed; and want to prevent the signs of aging rather than simply living with them. The results obtained with injectables last longer, and technologies are more efficient and safer than ever. Furthermore, the results are more consistent from one session to another because they are easy to replicate.
Cosmetic Medicine Versus Plastic Surgery
First and foremost, we must understand that medical technology cannot reproduce the results obtained from a Rhytidectomy ("facelift" or "lifting"), Liposuction or Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). You must have realistic expectations and be interested in impressive but discreet results. Cosmetic medicine can give you a younger appearance and reshape your silhouette, but not as dramatically as would a surgical intervention.
Most cosmetic medicine procedures are specific in their results, and do not compete with surgery. This is the case with laser hair removal, photo-rejuvenation (to eliminate brown spots or blotches), treatment for cellulite (provided the patient follows a maintenance program), laser vein treatment, laser tattoo removal and fractional resurfacing to rejuvenate the skin or reduce acne scars, etc.
The following is a table illustrating plastic surgery treatments versus those of cosmetic medicine, for the same areas of the body. Again, the results obtained by cosmetic medicine will be more discreet than those obtained by surgery.
| Plastic Surgery | Cosmetic medicine | |
| Rhytidectomy ( "facelift") | 1) Volumalift with injectable filler + Skin tightening with radiofrequency (Thermage or Accent) 2) Several treatments using Sculptra + Skin tightening with radiofrequency |
|
| Liposculpture (body) | Remodeling with Ultrasound (UltraShape) + Skin tightening with radiofrequency |
|
| Blepharoplasty (eyelids) | Fractional Resurfacing + Skin tightening with radiofrequency |
Cosmetic Medicine Treatments Explained
Volumalift
A procedure that involves injecting large quantities of filler in order to rebuild volume lost in the face as a result of aging and the weakening of tissues. We typically use hyaluronic acid (Restylane, Juvederm, Esthelis, Teosyal, etc.) injectables. Result: remodeling of facial forms by recreating volume.
Skin tightening with radiofrequency
This procedure use devices that transmit radio frequencies into the deep layers of the skin. This energy is transformed into heat, which in turn stimulates the formation of collagen. Collagen is used to support the skin. The best-known radio frequency devices are Accent and Thermage. Result: gradual firming of the skin and reduction of wrinkles and folds.
Remodeling with Ultrasound
This technique uses ultrasound to break down subcutaneous fat cells in order to reduce the thickness of the fat layer. The UltraShape device is the only technology currently on the market for this procedure. Result: thinning of the silhouette and reduction of fat bulges.
Sculptra
This is an injectable that gradually stimulates the production of collagen in the skin in order to create thickness. Result: increase in volume and firmness of the skin.
Fractional Resurfacing
This procedure uses a laser to gradually destroy damaged and matured skin so that new cells can replace it. This process is called fractional resurfacing because only a fraction of the skin is subject to each laser treatment. By increasing treatments, it gradually regenerates the skin. This approach is much more gentle than total resurfacing, a method used in the past. Result: profound rejuvenation of the skin with reduction of scars, wrinkles and fine lines, along with lightening of skin tone.
Whether you decide on surgery or cosmetic medicine, be sure to meet with a successful and competent physician. You must decide whether you are looking for dramatic results, or if you wish to have a well-rested and rejuvenated air. Consult your physician in order to find the treatment that best meets your needs.
Book an appointment online now so that we may evaluate your needs together.